Λάζαρος (Lazaros)
Lazaros
Lazarus
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 15 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Lazaros is a Greek form of the Hebrew Eleazar, meaning "whom God helps." In the New Testament, it appears in only two distinct contexts within the Gospels. Most prominently, it identifies the brother of Mary and Martha, who lived in Bethany and was raised from the dead by Jesus (John 11:1–44). This event serves as a pivotal moment in John’s Gospel, demonstrating Jesus’ power over death.
Less commonly, the name appears in Luke 16:20–31 as the protagonist of a parable about a beggar who suffers in life but is comforted in Abraham’s bosom. While this Lazarus is a fictional character created for teaching purposes, the use of a real, well-known name adds emotional weight to the story. The repetition of the name across these narratives highlights the theme of divine assistance in situations of human helplessness.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Lazarus means "whom God helps," a truth that shines through two very different stories in the Gospels. In Luke, a beggar named Lazarus finds comfort after suffering, reminding us that God sees those whom society overlooks. In John, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, showing His power over the finality of death and His deep love for His friends.
These accounts offer hope in our own moments of helplessness. Whether facing physical illness or spiritual weariness, the name itself points to divine assistance. We can trust that God is near to those who suffer and that He holds the power to bring life where there seems to be none.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 15 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Lazarus13×
- Lazarus.1×
- Lazarus,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Λάζαρος8×
- Λάζαρον5×
- Λάζαρον.1×
- Λάζαρε,1×
Key Verses
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John 11:43
When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!”
Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb, demonstrating His authority over death and confirming His identity as the Resurrection.
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Luke 16:25
“But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that you, in your lifetime, received your good things, and Lazarus, in the same way, bad things. But here he is now comforted and you are in anguish.
Abraham explains the reversal of fortunes between the beggar Lazarus and the rich man, highlighting God's justice and care for the suffering.
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John 11:5
Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.
This verse establishes Jesus' personal love for Lazarus, grounding the miracle in relational intimacy rather than mere power.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Lazarus mean?
Is Lazarus in Luke and John the same person?
Why does the name Lazarus appear in only these two contexts?
Every Occurrence (15 verses across 2 books)
Luke 4 verses
A certain beggar, named Lazarus, was taken to his gate, full of sores,
Luke 16:23In Hades, he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and saw Abraham far off, and Lazarus at his bosom.
Luke 16:24He cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water…
Luke 16:25“But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that you, in your lifetime, received your good things, and Lazarus, in the same way,…